Industrial Magnetics (IMI)

Industrial Magnetics Lifting Magnets

Lifting steel with slings and chains is slow, labor-intensive, and often dangerous. Industrial Magnetics, Inc. (IMI) offers a faster, smarter alternative. By utilizing advanced magnetic technology, IMI lifters allow a single operator to grab, lift, and release steel loads without ever touching the rigging or climbing onto the stack.

Holloway Houston Inc. stocks a wide range of IMI lifting solutions, catering to every scale of operation, from small Magnetic Handlers for sheet metal to massive Electro-Permanent Magnets capable of lifting thousands of pounds.

The IMI Product Ecosystem

1. Permanent Lifting Magnets (FX / PNL / CL Series)

These magnets require no electricity to operate, making them 100% portable and fail-safe.

• FX Series : The premium choice for industrial lifting. Features a rare-earth neodymium magnet circuit that is engaged/disengaged via a rotating handle. The handle locks securely in the "On" position to prevent accidental release.
• Specialized Shapes :
  • FXE (Economy) : High performance at a value price point.
  • FXR (Round Material) : Specifically designed with a deep V-groove to lift pipes, shafts, and round bars.
  • FXP (Plate) : Optimized flux depth for lifting thinner plates.
• Safety : Since they rely on permanent magnets, they will never drop the load due to a power outage.

2. Electro-Permanent Lifting Magnets (FXE Series)

The best of both worlds. These hybrids use a pulse of electricity to switch the magnet "On" or "Off," but require no power to hold the load.

• Benefit : Combine the safety of a permanent magnet (no drop on power loss) with the convenience of push-button remote control.
• Application : Ideal for automated systems or high-cycle lifting where manual handle switching is impractical.

3. Electromagnetic Lifters (BUX Series)

Traditional powered magnets that offer variable holding power.

• Control : Allows for "dribbling" or partial release of sheets (e.g., dropping one sheet at a time from a stack).
• Requirement : Requires a constant power source (battery or mains) to maintain the magnetic field.

4. Magnetic Handlers

Small, manual tools for ergonomic safety.

• Application : Used for dragging, positioning, or lifting small steel parts without using hands (preventing cuts and pinch points).
• Models : Includes the LCM and AL series for light-duty lifting and sheet fanning.

Why Choose Magnetic Lifting?

1. Speed & Efficiency

Magnetic lifting eliminates the need to block up a load to slide slings underneath. A single operator can approach the load, engage the magnet, and lift in seconds. This drastically reduces downtime between lifts.

2. Load Protection

Magnets grip the surface without crushing it. Unlike chains or dogs that bite into the steel, IMI magnets are non-marring, making them perfect for finished or painted surfaces.

3. Safety

By removing the need for a rigger to walk on or near the load to attach hooks, you significantly reduce the risk of injury. IMI magnets are designed with a 3:1 Safety Factor (on most permanent models) to ensure a secure hold even on imperfect surfaces.

Selection Guide: Which Magnet do I need?

Choosing the right magnet depends on your material :

• Load Thickness : Thinner plates require magnets with a shallower magnetic field (like the FXP) to achieve full capacity.
• Surface Condition : Air gaps caused by rust, paint, or scale reduce lifting capacity. Always derate the magnet according to the manufacturer's air gap chart.
• Shape : If lifting round bars or pipes, you must use a model with a V-Shoe (like the FXR series). Flat-bottom magnets will have dangerously low contact area on round stock.

Technical Specifications

• Safety Factor : Generally 3:1 for Permanent Magnets (check specific model).
• Temp Rating : Standard models rated up to 176°F (80°C). High-temp models available.
• Compliance : ASME B30.20 and BTH-1 Design Category B.

Browse our inventory below to filter by Magnet Type, Lifting Capacity (WLL), and Plate Thickness.